Guwahati, 19 March (HS): Senior BJP leader Jayanta Kumar Das on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the party leadership after being denied a ticket from the Dispur Assembly constituency and announced plans to float a new political party.

Addressing a press conference here, Das claimed that he had anticipated such a situation five years ago despite dedicating over 35 years to the party. He said he had worked in difficult conditions, including in Manipur and expressed disappointment over what he termed as a lack of recognition from the party.

He alleged that his name was at the top in internal surveys for the Dispur seat but was ignored, while questioning the basis on which Pradyut Bordoloi was considered. Das also criticised the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, alleging that the BJP in Assam was not built by the current leadership alone and accusing the government of running “political syndicates.”

Das further stated that the BJP has deviated from its original ideology and claimed that “old BJP” workers were being sidelined in favour of leaders from other parties. He questioned whether the party was facing a leadership crisis, forcing it to import candidates.

Announcing his next political move, Das said he would form a new regional party representing neglected sections from Sadiya to Dhubri, focusing on the interests of Assam and its people. He also indicated that he may contest as an independent candidate if required, under public pressure.

The BJP leader asserted that he would file his nomination on March 23 and challenged the Chief Minister to prove his strength by ensuring victory in Dispur. He maintained that the people of Dispur do not favour Bordoloi as a candidate.

Das reiterated that he would continue his political fight and build a new platform aligned with the interests of “original BJP workers” and the people of Assam.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash